Air Travel - Security - Domestic & International Flights?

I will be traveling this summer, both Domestic and International. I hear loads of people complaining about the security measures and what you can/can't take on a plane.
Truthfully, I haven't been on a plane in at least 3 or 4 years. What advice would you give me?
Is it safe to put my medicines into my checked bag so I don't have to worry about security taking it from my carry-on?
One of my trips includes a layover. What are the chances that my bags will be lost?

Hi! I though I'd help answer your question. I am a reservation sales agent for a major airline, and I get these questions all the time. The main restriction right now with carry on is regarding liquid or gels. If it's ANY type of liquid or gel (i.e. hairspray, hairgel, deodorant, perfume, etc) it has to be in containers of 3.4 oz each and all of those containers must fit comfortable in a clear, 1 quart size ziploc bag. If it's any amount over, it has to be in your checked piece. This EXCLUDES medications and baby formulas/breastmilk. I would NOT check your medication - bring that in your carry on and you may want to declare that to the security agent if it's a liquid med. If pills, no prob!

If you have a layover, make sure your leaving again on the same carrier. Most carriers have baggage agreements with each other, so your bags will be checked all the way through to your destination. Some don't, however and you have to recheck them in again for your connection. You may want to call your carrier to confirm. If it's all on the same carrier, the chance of getting your bags lost is very very slim. Usually the average (I believe) is 1 or 2 bags lost per 1,000 customers. So, chances are - you'll be fine!

Have a great trip and don't forget to leave yourself with enough checkin time. International flights - at LEAST 2 hours!

Ciao!